CHAZY, NY — Arthur Bechard, 97, passed away on Nov. 27, 2012, at the Meadowbrook Nursing Home in Plattsburgh. Arthur was born in Coopersville, N.Y., on April 29, 1915, and was the first of ten children born to Napoleon and Josephine Bechard.
In 1939, Arthur married Helen Marie Coupal of St. Michel, Quebec. Together, they raised eight children on their farm on Route 9 in Chazy. Aside from running the farm, Arthur was employed as a heavy equipment operator for the Clinton County Highway Department for over thirty years, until his retirement in 1977.
That is Arthur's short biography, but who he was as a person goes beyond the scope of an obituary. To that end, his family and friends can only admire his perpetual courage and strength. He approached every problem with the understanding that a solution rested someplace. His common sense, humility, sense of humor, and honesty were just some of the many instruments in his toolbox.
Arthur's inclusiveness and generosity reflected his deep belief in God. His prodigious ability to grow a garden went far beyond the plentiful tomatoes and pumpkins. Although there is no Nobel Prize on the shelf, Arthur was a tremendously inspiring human being.He will be greatly missed and will always be loved.
Survivors include his eight children; sons, David, Roy (Gail), Michael (Sandy), Terry (Alexandra), and Ricky; daughters, Diane (Howard) Cioci, Linda (Betsy Trombley), and Judy (Theresa Page). Arthur is survived by brothers, Gerard, Robert (Barbara); and sisters, Irene Babbie, Gabrielle Bishop, Framboise Smith. Arthur is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, and nieces. He was predeceased by his wife Helen in 2002; brothers, Orel, Lionel, Rene; and sister, Agnes LaFontaine.
Calling hours will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1, at the Walker Funeral Home, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh N.Y. A religious service will occur from 4 to 4:30 p.m. following the calling hours.
The entire family would like to thank the Meadowbrook staff for their excellent care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Arthur's memory to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 368, Plattsburgh, NY 12901; the Elmore SPCA, 556 Telegraph Road, Peru, NY 12972; or the Adirondack Humane Society, 134 Idaho Ave., Plattsburgh, NY 12903.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.rwwalkerfh.com
